Anyone who set foot in downtown Toronto in the month of September was aware that the Toronto International Film Festival was going on. In fact, many movies debuted at the Isabel Bader Theatre, right next to our new hub at Birge Carnegie. Over 350 movies were presented this year, many of which were premiering. This also brought a flock of celebrities to Toronto who came to present their films to audiences. Being the major movie buff that I am, I have taken the liberty of reviewing the 5 films I saw during the 2013 festival. What’s better than catching a flick when you need a little study break?
You Are Here 1 1/2 stars
With a fairly stacked cast, any movie-goer would be enthusiastic to attend this film. The story centers around two siblings (Amy Poehler and Zach Galifianakis) who have to deal with some family assets when their father passes away. Owen Wilson pulls off a funny performance as the brother’s best friend. However, the story takes too many unnecessary turns, and never reaches a climax. By the end, viewers will feel confused and unsatisfied.
Third Person 2 stars
The film’s star-studded cast includes Liam Neeson, Olivia Wilde, Mila Kunis, Adrien Brody and James Franco. Olivia Wilde gives a particularly strong and emotional performance. The movie jumps around between each of the main characters and their stories, until all of their lives appear to become intertwined. There were mixed feelings about the film- some viewers will feel dissatisfied by the unclear ending after two hours of running time, while others will appreciate the interpretation of the film being left to one’s own imagination.
Don Jon 3 stars
Joseph Gordon-Levitt did it all for this film – he wrote, directed and acted. The story is based around Jon, a womanizing man in his twenties who has a strong addiction to pornography. Jon is more than happy with his lifestyle until he falls head over heels for Barbara Sugarman (Scarlett Johansson) and things begin to change. Both of the main actors, as well as Julianne Moore in a supporting role, are commended for their performances. Overall, the movie is both highly entertaining and comical, but the subject matter may be too raunchy for some viewers.
Note: Joseph Gordon-Levitt has clearly grown up since his Third Rock From the Sun days. He has never looked better on screen.
Gravity 3 1/2 stars
Sandra Bullock is the star of this space thriller. The story revolves around a woman’s struggle to return to earth after she literally gets lost in space. What is really remarkable about the film is the technology that was used to create such realistic and ‘out of this world’ scenery. This is basically a one-woman show, and Sandra Bullock manages to keep the audience engaged the whole time. Take caution that the movie is in 3D, and at points it feels like you are in space right along with her.
Extra bonus: Chris Hadfield was in attendance at the premiere and said that the next time he goes to space, he is bringing Sandra Bullock with him.
Life of Crime 4 stars
The story, adapted from the novel The Switch by the late Elmore Leonard, revolves around a woman named Mickey (Jennifer Aniston), who is married to a wealthy real estate developer. Two ex-cons, who befriended each other in prison, decide to kidnap Mickey and hold her for ransom until her husband pays up. What the criminals do not know is that the marriage between the couple is very rocky and on the pathway to divorce, and the plot blossoms from there. Although I would not categorize this film as a “nail biter”, the story only gets better as it comes to a close.
Note: this may be a slightly biased rating because I am a HUGE Jennifer Aniston fan.
